Covid-19 vaccinations in GP and community settings across Dumbarton and the Vale will start in a few days - beginning with people aged 80 and over.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde's vaccination team will begin administering the Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine in the area on Monday, January 11.

With age the greatest risk factor for serious illness and death from COVID-19, the first priority group for the vaccine is residents in a care home for older adults and their carers, people aged 80 or over and frontline health and social care workers.

The eligible group will receive a letter or phone call from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde inviting them forward for their vaccination and advising them where and when they can get it. 

The vaccine requires two doses to offer the best possible protection.

Second dose appointments will be scheduled for twelve weeks after the first dose is administered, in line with MHRA regulatory advice and updated clinical guidance from the JCVI.

Dr Linda de Caestecker, director of public health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: “Approval of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine is great news as it is logistically easier to administer in local settings, meaning that we can roll it out to more people. 

“However, we’d urge patience as we work through priority groups in line with the vaccine supplies that we have available. 

“Everyone will be invited forward for their vaccine in due course and there is no need for anyone to contact their GP.

“Whilst stay at home guidance is in place to supress the spread of Covid-19, I’d encourage those eligible to attend their appointments when invited, as getting vaccinated remains a valid reason to leave your home.”

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman, said: “We are prioritising the delivery of first vaccine doses to as many people on the JCVI Phase 1 clinical priority list in the shortest possible timeframe, to maximise the impact of the vaccine programme in its primary aims of reducing mortality and hospitalisations for those at greatest risk.

“Vaccination is one of the most important tools we have as we work our way out of this pandemic.”

For more information visit nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine or call 0800 030 8013.